Sports Direct signs Rangers deal

Friday 24 August 2012 - Editorial Assistant

Sports products & clothing retailer Sports Direct has today confirmed a joint venture with Rangers football club which will see the company sell its merchandise across its stores.

Earlier this week, the club ended its partnership with competitor JJB Sports after four years and Rangers believes that the new deal with SportsDirect.com will provide greater control over the range, price and design of products.

Rangers CEO Mark Green welcomed the move, saying: ““We are delighted to have SportsDirect.com on board as they are one of the world’s top retail brands.

“This deal will be beneficial to both parties but more importantly the supporters who will be able to buy direct from Rangers once again and support their club.”

Rangers also announced that it is to look into new retail opportunities, including an airport site following long-running requests from fans and called on its fanbase to continue to invest in retail products in order to generate further revenue which can be re-invested into the club.

Sports Direct Founder Mike Ashley, owner of Newcastle United, is understood to be in talks with the club to acquire a ten per cent stake and a spokesperson for SportsDirect.com welcomed the new joint venture.

“This is a very exciting deal for SportsDirect.com and we are pleased to be forming a retail partnership with one of the UK’s most recognised football clubs,” the spokesperson commented.

“Building on our well established retail and brand experience, we look forward to working with Rangers to offer a wider selection of official apparel and merchandise to their increasingly global fan base.”